By Ivan Stewart Saldajeno/PNA
MANILA — The Philippine Azkals’ maiden campaign in the AFC Asian Cup came to an end on Wednesday night after bowing to Kyrgyzstan, 1-3, in Dubai.
Needing a win to bolster their bid for the playoffs, the Azkals found themselves in the “Vitalij Lux Show” as Lux put up a hat trick to doom them.
Lux scored the opening goal in the 24th minute, finding some space inside the penalty box.
Lux then made it 2-0 with a 50th minute strike while completing the three-goal showing with a 77th minute followup.
Stephan Schrock scored the consolation goal for the Azkals in the 80th minute.
The Azkals will leave the tournament winless after three games.
